It’s no secret that going on vacation can increase your impact on the planet- you’re using up more resources than usual through consumption that you wouldn’t normally do. And while you shouldn’t feel guilty for enjoying yourself on your family getaway, there are a few simple things everyone can do to reduce their impact during travel.

Do Not Disturb
Clean sheets everyday are a luxury that you may not need. Hang the do not disturb sign and hang up your towels. This helps conserve resources.

Use a Reusable Water Bottle
Every bit of plastic ever produced is still on the Earth, and much of it ends up in our oceans. A reusable water bottle goes a long way in reducing waste.

Nonstop Flights are Greener
Takeoffs and landings burn the most fuel, so nonstop is the way to go for a greener flight.

Think about Your Rental Car
Traveling by yourself? Get the smallest car available to maximize miles per gallon, or even rent a hybrid or electric vehicle if possible. Your wallet will also thank you.

Cruise Ships are Getting Green
These ships are historically large polluters, but they’re taking notice. Royal Caribbean has pledged to use only sustainable seafood by the end of the year 2020, and new ships are being powered by natural gas. Other cruise lines offer carbon offset programs.

Share Rooms and Eat In
Timeshares are great for this, they offer large enough accommodations and a full kitchen. This maximizes efficiency and produces less waste than going out to dinner every night.

Always Recycle
This should be a no brainer. Recycle everything that is allowed. Most hotels will have separate containers for this.

Return Those Brochures and Maps
Have you taken items from the rack of brochures, maps and coupons? Great! Return them if you don’t use them rather than trashing them.

About the Author

About the Author: Pat Barcas serves as staff writer and photographer for RTX Traveler Magazine, based in Asheville, NC. His favorite RTX destinations are on the beach: Orange Beach, Alabama, New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. More from this author.

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